intensely
UK: ɪnˈtensli | US: ɪnˈtensli
adv. in an extreme or forceful manner
adv. with strong emotion or concentration
intensely = intense<strained, extreme> + ly<adverb suffix>
- intense (from Latin intensus, past participle of intendere "to stretch, strain," from in- "toward" + tendere "to stretch")
- ly (Old English -līce, forming adverbs from adjectives)
Etymology Origin:
The word "intensely" combines "intense," rooted in the Latin idea of stretching or straining toward a goal, with the adverbial suffix "-ly." Originally tied to physical tension, "intense" evolved to describe emotional or mental extremes, and "-ly" transforms it into an adverb. The progression reflects a shift from literal strain to figurative intensity.
She stared intensely at the painting, lost in thought.
The sun shone intensely during the summer heatwave.
He worked intensely to meet the deadline.
Their debate grew intensely personal.
The aroma of coffee filled the room intensely.